Ivermectin Glenmark (Ivermectin)

Ivermectin is an antiparasitic agent used to treat infections caused by various helminths and ectoparasites.

• Onchocerciasis: reduces microfilarial load and helps control disease progression.
• Strongyloidiasis: eliminates intestinal larvae and prevents disseminated infection.
• Scabies: eradicates Sarcoptes scabiei mites, relieving itching and skin lesions.
• Lymphatic filariasis: decreases adult worm burden and interrupts transmission.
• Other helminth infections: provides broad‑spectrum activity against several nematode species.

• Ivermectin binds with high affinity to glutamate‑gated chloride channels in the nerve and muscle cells of invertebrates. This binding increases chloride ion influx, causing hyperpolarization of the cell membrane, leading to paralysis and death of the parasite while having minimal effect on mammalian cells.

Ivermectin is generally well tolerated, but adverse reactions can occur.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea: mild to moderate stomach upset.
• Dizziness: transient light‑headedness.
• Pruritus: itching at the site of parasite death.
• Headache: mild tension‑type headache.
• Abdominal pain: cramping or discomfort.
• Diarrhea: loose stools.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Stevens‑Johnson syndrome: severe skin reaction requiring immediate medical attention.
• Hepatotoxicity: elevated liver enzymes or jaundice.
• Neurologic toxicity: seizures or altered mental status.
• Anaphylaxis: acute allergic reaction with respiratory compromise.
• Severe hypotension: sudden drop in blood pressure.
• Visual disturbances: blurred vision or optic neuritis.

Before prescribing Ivermectin, clinicians should consider several safety measures.

• Assess contraindications: avoid use in patients with known hypersensitivity to ivermectin.
• Review patient history: consider coexisting liver disease or neurologic disorders.
• Monitor liver function: periodic testing may be warranted in long‑term therapy.
• Avoid concomitant CNS depressants: may increase risk of neurologic side effects.
• Consider drug interactions: evaluate other medications that affect CYP3A4 or P‑glycoprotein.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep in the original container, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Ivermectin may interact with other medicines, requiring careful management.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole): can raise ivermectin plasma concentrations.
• P‑glycoprotein inhibitors (e.g., verapamil, quinidine): may increase systemic exposure.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Warfarin: may enhance anticoagulant effect, requiring INR monitoring.
• Other antiparasitics: combined use can increase risk of neurotoxicity.
• CNS depressants (e.g., benzodiazepines): may potentiate dizziness or sedation.
• Antihistamines: could mask early signs of allergic reactions.
• Immunosuppressants: may alter parasite clearance rates.